Mr. Pontellier’ Image

Edna is a very dynamic character, especially for this time period. At first she is a very humbled women who listens to her husband’s commands, now Edna is disobeying her husband and doing what pleases her. Mr. Pontellier struggles to deal with this new wife. Although Mr. Pontellier does not actually care for his wife, he cares about himself.  This is seen when Kate Chopin writes, “… and he begged her to consider first, foremost, and above all else, what people would say.” (pg. 126) Mr. Pontellier fears that his wife being uncontrollable is quite inappropriate, specifically for life in this time. He must not allow his wife to do what she wants and pleases. Thus, Mr. Pontellier will appear as a weak husband due to his lack of control over his wife’s actions. People will begin to talk and spread word of how Mr. Pontellier is a weak man. This image of Mr. Pontellier could ruin his professional career and break other important relationships. Therefore, Edna is more of a burden to Mr. Pontellier because she is destroying his image.